- Uruguay striker links up with ex Barcelona colleagues
- Suarez leaves Gremio after 24 goals in 52 games
- Miami early favourites for MLS Cup
Inter Miami have officially welcomed striker Luis Suarez to its squad. The 36-year-old Uruguayan has signed a one-year contract with the Major League Soccer (MLS) side as a free agent, departing Brazilian club Gremio at the conclusion of the 2023 season. Miami are early favourites to win the MLS Cup.
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Suarez joins up with ex Barcelona contingent in Miami
Reports earlier this month hinted at the finalisation of the deal, and now Suarez joins forces with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba at Miami. The quartet previously achieved considerable success, winning four La Liga titles and a Champions League together from 2014 to 2020.
Miami confirmed the signing with the message, “Welcome Luis Suarez, to the dream of Miami.”
Suarez’s recent stint with Gremio saw him score 24 goals in 52 games during the 2023 season, despite battling a knee issue. This ailment may, however, limit his availability for every game with Miami.
In an interview with Uruguay’s 100% Deporte radio show earlier in the month, Suarez detailed his struggle with the knee problem, stating, “The truth is that the first steps I take in the morning are very painful. Anyone who sees me thinks it is impossible for me to play a game. My son asks me to play with him, and I am not able to. On the inside, I have cartilage wear, and that hits the bone. No liquid is generated, but sometimes it gets stuck. Before games, I take three pills and inject myself.”
MLS teams are allowed three designated players (DPs), and at the end of the previous season, Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Gregore held those positions for Miami. However, there is potential for Gregore to be bought down, freeing up a DP spot for Suarez, depending on the team’s decisions.
Betting Implications
Before the arrival of Messi and the ex Barcelona contingent last year Miami were struggling. They improved in the second half of the campaign and look a good bet to challenge for the MLS Cup. The bookies have MIami as early favourites and the signing of Suarez is likely to strengthen this.
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